
i 



A GUIDE 



TO 



PROVIDENCE RIVER 



NARRAGANSETT BAY; 



PROVIDENCE TO NEWPORT 



IN WHICH ALL THE TOWNS, VILLAGES, ISLANDS AND IM- 
PORTANT OBJECTS ON BOTH SIDES ARE NAMED IN ORDER, 
WITH AN ACCOUNT OF THE PROMINENT HISTORIC INCI- 
DENTS CONNECTED WITH THE3I. 



BY JOSEPH BANVAED. 



PROVIDENCE : 
COGGESHALL & STEWART, 

17 Westminster ^Street. 

1858. 






Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1858, by 

JOSEPH BANVARD, 
In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of Rhode Island. 






s^ 



PREFACE. 



The pleasure of an excursion is greatly increased by a 
knowledge of the places which are passed, and the events 
of which they were the scenes. In this way instruction 
is blended with enjoyment. 

In Rhode Island "The Excursion" is an established 
institution. Thousands of individuals go down the river 
every year to enjoy a pleasant sail, the refreshing cool- 
ness of the sea air, a delightful bath, good fishing, a clam 
bake and fish chowder. 

During the warm season, four or five steamers make 
double trips daily from Providence to Newport, or '* the 
shore," and are generally crowded with passengers. It 
was thought therefore that a Guide, which would give in 
a brief compass the desired information would be a wel- 
come companion. That is the object of the present work. 



(|flnti!ntf) 



Providence. 

Fox Point. 

India Point and Bridge. 

Providence Reform School. 

Harbor Line. 

Sassafras Point. 

Powder House. 

Robin Hill. 

Rum Boat. 

Bower's Cove. 

Kettle Point. 

Field's Point. 

Fuller's Rocks, Coney Island. 

ScoPULOUS Island, Bulkhead RockSj 

PoivmAM Rock and Beacon. 

Starvegoat Island. 

Vue de l'eau. 

Pawtuxet. 

Sarin's Point. 

Pawtuxet Beacon. 

Gaspee Point. 

Bullock's Point. 

Green's Island. 

Occupaspatuxet (Green's) Cove 

Barrington. 

Nayatt Point. 



Warren. 

CoNiMicuT Point. 
EuMsTiCK Point and Rocks. 
Rocky Point. 
Warwick JS'eck. 
Warwick Light House. 
Bristol. 

POPPSQUASH. 

Mount Hope. 

Prudence Island. 

Patience, Despair and Hope. 

Gull Point. 

Potter's Cove. 

Hog Island. 

Bristol Ferry. 

Pall River. 

The Island of Rhode Island. 

Rhode Island Coal Mines. 

Portsmouth Grove. 

Sandy Point Light. 

Bullock's Wharf. 

Dyer's Island. 

Half- Way Rocks. 

Connanicut Island. 

Gould Island. 

Bishop's Rock. 

Coaster's Harbor Island, 

Gull Rocks. 

Rose Island. 

The Dumplings. 

Goat Island. 

Lime Rocks. 

Newport. 



A GUIDE TO 



|i;obit^irq |lipijii aiut tliij §a|. 



Nark.acxA\sett Bay is one of the most 
magnificent and variegated sheets of water on 
the American coast. It extends from Point 
Judith and Seaconnett Point to Providence. 
It is gemmed with numerous islands of vari- 
ous sizes and singular forms, the largest of 
which are under a high degree of cultivation. 

Its shores are indented with many pictu- 
resque coves, inlets find small bays, w^hich 
with their accompanying peninsulas, and co- 
sey villages present many dehghtful scenes to 
the eye of the traveler. At various points 
there are excellent fishing grounds, and great 
numbers of blue fish, scup, flounders, menha- 
den, and other species of the finny tribes are 



8 

annually drawn from its prolific waters. Oc- 
casionally a strolling shark or a school of por- 
poises find their way into the bay and furnish 
additional amusement. 

PROVIDENCE. 

Providence is beautifully situated upon the 
head waters of the bay, ai;id on land remarka- 
bly uneven in respect to its elevation. 

To the west it stretches away over a pleas- 
ant plain, with its broad and regular streets 
lined Avith spacious stores and neat comforta- 
ble dwellings of wood and brick. 

To the east and north-east, the ground 
rises, in some places gently, and in other 
places abruptly, forming high hills which are 
covered with edifices, many of which are 
beautiful specimens of architecture, present- 
ing a noble appearance and commanding an 
extensive idew of the surrounding country. 
Many of these buildings ai'e separated ft'om 
each other by elegant gardens, delightfully or- 



9 

namented with trees, which, when viewei 
fi:om a distance, with the alternate dweUing 
and churches nesthng amongst them, furnis] 
an eminently charming pictui*e. 

In the centre of the city is a considerabl 
collection of water, surrounded at great ex 
pense, by a stone wall and fence, known a 
the Cove. The walk around it forms ai 
agreeable promenade which is resorted to ii 
pleasant evenings by the citizens for its re 
freshing coolness. On its southern side is th 
long, brick depot, in which meet all the rail 
roads that enter the city. It is one of th 
finest structul'es of the kind in the country. 

On the northern side of the Cove is th 
prison. 

Amongst its prominent public institutions 
Brown University is pre-eminent. Its severa 
spacious buildings are ehgibly situated on somi 
of the highest land in the city. It has an ex 
cellent Ubrary of 80,000 volumes many o 
which are rare and valuable works. 



10 

Providence Athenaeum is a valuable circu- 
ting library, containing 22,000 volumes de- 
signed principally for popular use. 

Mr. E. A. Guild tbe librarian of tlie col- 
j 
lege, and Mr. Josiali D. Hedge of tlie Athe- 
naeum, gentlemen of intelhgence and refine- 
ment, are always happy to receive visitors, and 
aid them in a survey of their respective insti- 
tutions, or in availing themselves of the in- 
tellectual resources which are there treasured 
up. 

The State House, Friends Yearly Boarding 
School, Arcade, Dexter Asylum, Post Office, 
Butler Hospital for the Insane, and the Ee- 
form School are all objects of interest. The 
present number of inhabitants is about 50,- 
000. It contains 35 church edifices, some of 
which are large, elegant and imposing build- 
ings. It is also well supplied with schools, 
banks, insurance offices and various benevo- 
lent institutions. 

Providence was formerly distinguished for 



11 

its extensive commerce with the East Indies 
and other distant countries. 

At the present time it is largely engaged 
in manufacttires. Some idea of the extent of 
its industrial operations may be formed from 
the following statement. 

It contains four bleaching and calendering 
establishments, five cotton mills of 34,000 
spindles, two woollen mills, two screw facto- 
ries, fourteen furnaces, two steam engine es- 
tabhshments, one rolling mill, one edge-tool 
factory, one factory for shoe tics and lacings, 
five planeing machines, eight engraving shops, 
three butt-hinge factories, five brass founder- 
ies, twenty tin and sheet iron shops, eight 
hundred carpenters, between three and four 
hundred brick masons and fourteen hundred 
jewellers and silversmiths. 

The following statistics of the annual value 
of the manufactures of Providence for 1855, 
prepared with much care by Edwin M. Snow, 
M. D., will give additional information. 



12 



VALUE OF MANUrACTURES IN PROVIDENCE. 

Printed Goods #2,771,600. 

'l'""'^'^ 2,696,000 

iron Manufactures 2 651^000 

^;''''' .'.".'*.■.".■.'.■.■.■; 1,'086,000.' 

Carpenters' and Masons' work 1 160 000 

Cotton Goods ;;;■■■ '920,W 

Clothing and Tailors' work 846,000. 

Patent Medicines 700 OOo' 

^^":^^^^^'^^« '.".r. '.'.".'.". 80oW 

WoulenGoods g^O^O^O. 

?^^"^ 235,000. 

India Rubber Goods. 500,000. 

Soap and Candles 45l'900* 

^"^■'^' .'.'.'.'".'. looiooo! 

^'''^^''y 160,000 

^^^^^•^^^' 220,960.' 

Mour and Grist Mills. 142 065 

^^™^*^^^ ..'.".'.'.' 187,'000." 

Leather and Belts 185 000 

Tin and Sheet Iron Ware 144,'900.* 

Boot and Shoe making ._ lls'oOO 

Harness and Trunk making 105,'oOO. 

^^g^^s 100,000'. 

Carriages and Cars 25q qqq 

Plumbers and Brass Founders 89 520. 

Box Making 86^400. 

Planing Mills ^.,^^ ^^[^qq^ 

Marble and Free Stone 75 000 

Blacksmith's Work 93 ^qq 

Other Manufactures '72Q 106 

Total annual value of products #17,415'^9! 



FOX POINT. 

This is the first point on the east. So soon 
as we pass this, steam will be increased and 
we shall plough our way through the water 
at the rate of twelve or fifteen miles an hour. 
Tradition reports that foxes were formerly ac- 
customed to visit this point for the oysters 
which abounded here, hence its name. 

In the early stage of the American Eevolu- 
tion a battery of thirty-four eighteen pound- 
ers was erected here. Esek Hopkins was 
appointed commandant of it; Samuel "War- 
ner, heutenant, and Christopher Sheldon, 
gunner. Seven men were appointed to each. 
The object was to prevent the Rose, Glasgow, 
and Swan, British ships of war from coming 
up to Providence and laying it under contri- 
bution for supphes for the King of Great 
Britain. Scows filled with inflammable ma- 
teiial were prepared, and a boom and chain 
were stretched across the channel for the 



14 

same purpose. The three above named ves- 
sels came from Boston to Newport. On the 
twenty-second of August, 1775, they came 
up the river to Conimicut Point, about ten 
miles below Fox Point ; there they prudent- 
ly determined to proceed no further and soon 
after returned to theii* former station near 
Newport. 

When news of the American treaty with 
France, reached Providence, it was received 
■with every demonstration of joy. A salute 
was fired from the battery at Fox Point, and 
jfrom the frigate Providence. 

INDIA POINT AND BRIDGE. 
This is a short distance east of Fox Point. 
The long dark bridge which you see, spans 
the Pawtucket, or Blackstone river. Tliis 
river takes its name fi'om Mr. William Black- 
stone who was the first settler of Boston. — 
After occupying that peninsula about five 
years, he sold it to Governor Winthrop and 



15 

his company for six shillings per head. Be- 
ing an eccentric man, and not finding his con- 
dition comfortable with the Puritans, he left 
them and went to Cumberland, R, I., about 
four miles fi.-oni PaAvtucket. The reason he 
assigned for his removal, was " I left Eng- 
land to get from under the power of the 
Lord Bishoj)s, but in America I am fallen 
under the power of the Lord Brethren." 
He planted the first trees that bore apples 
in Rhode Island. He occasionally visited 
Roger Williams in Providence and preached 
for him. When he did so, he was accustom- 
ed to make the journey on a bull's back. 
The arrival of this hullgine in the colony 
with its single passenger w\as a marked 
event. To conciliate the young people he 
distributed among them as a curiosity his 
apples. The " yellow sweetings," which for 
a long time were regarded as the richest ap- 
ples in the country, originated in his orchard. 
The place of his 'residence was on the east- 



16 

era. side of the river near a beautiful hill, 
known as Study Hill, from the cuxumstance 
of his using it as a place of meditation and 
study. The romance and loneliness of this 
place of retirement are now destroyed by a 
utilitarian railroad which runs through it, over 
which the cars go, shreiking and roaring a 
dozen times a day. 

Blackstone continued this hermit-like life 
for about forty years. He died in May, 
1675, and was buried on his farm. The spot 
is well known. Although the field is culti- 
vated every year, yet a space of about twelve 
feet which embraces the grave, has always 
been left untouched by the plough. He left 
a library of about two hundred volumes 
which were destroyed with his house in King 
Philip's war, which broke out soon after his 
death. 

Before we lose sight of the bridge over the 
Blackstone, I want to tell you of another in- 
teresting object. 'Not far fi'om that bridge in 



17 

a little cove is tlie famous " Slate E-ock/' on 
wliich it is said that Roger Williams first 
landed after his tedious and painful flight 
from the persecutions of his Massachusetts 
brethren. 

As he approached the place he was saluted 
by some friendly Indians with the peaceful 
enquiry " What Cheer netop ? " netop, mean- 
ing friend, a phrase which they had acquired 
from their intercourse with the English and 
which was equivalent to the salutation " How 
are you ? " or " What 's the news ? " It is 
this incident that is pictui'ed upon the seal of 
the city of Providence on the cover of this 
book. This rock is regarded with grateful 
veneration by the true sons of Rhode Island, 
and is covered with a large number of initials. 
From this salutation, the adjacent lands were 
called What Cheer, and under that name 
they were assigned to Roger Wilhams at the 
original division of the land among the j&rst 
settlers. Tradition also states that after ex- 



18 

changing friendly greetings with these In- 
dians, he proceeded round India Point and 
Fox Point, up the west side of the peninsu- 
la, near the mouth of Moshassuck river, now 
called Providence river, and went ashore at a 
point a little to the southward of St. John's 
Church where there is a spring, which has 
ever since been called Williams' Spring. 
Barber says, "his house was undoubtedly 
erected near the sjoot where he landed, and 
a few rods eastward of the celebrated spring." 
Here the wanderer found a resting place, 
which, in recognition of Divine interposition 
he called Providence. Here he established a 
government based upon liberty of conscience, 
and thus provided an asylum for the perse- 
cuted of all sects. Here he resided for over 
forty years devoting himself in various ways 
to the welfare of the colony and of the In- 
dians ; here he died and was buried though 
the precise place of his interment is unknown. 
The city is his monument. 



19 

Do you see that large white edifice on the 
hill above India Point ? It is the 

PROVIDENCE REFORM SCHOOL, 

For the instruction and reformation of idle 
and vicious children of both sexes. It was 
established Nov. 1, 1850, and has accom- 
plished much good for those for whose ben- 
efit it was designed. The childrcn ai-e not 
only instructed in such branches of know- 
ledge as ai'6 adapted to their various mental 
capacities, but special attention is given to the 
formation of their moral character. 

A portion of each secular day of the week 
is devoted to such labor as is suitable for 
them, and in some degree remunerative to the 
institution. 

The building overlooks the harbor and bay, 
and a more favorable location for a fine pros- 
pect, and for pure air, is seldom found. It 
was formerly called the Tockwotton House, 
Tockwotton being the name given by the In- 



20 

dians to the tract of land in that section oC" 
the city. That 

PYRAMDAL STRUCTURE 
Of stone standing on the western shore is a 
mark to indicate the harbor hne. Owners of 
the land are allowed to fill in as far as that, 
but no farther. The Point near is called 

SASSAFRAS POINT. 
It is probably so called from trees of that 
name having formerly abounded there. In 
the early settlement of this country, sassafras 
was highly esteemed as an article of Materia 
Medica, and large quantities were exported 
to England. It was an important commodity 
of commerce. 

I^OWDER HOUSE. 
That small brick building with a black door 
just round Sassafras Point is a powder house. 
Notice the beautiful cluster of hills behind it. 



21 

ROBIN HILL 
Kises somewhat conspicuously above the 
rest and is crowned with Fort Independence. 

RUxM BOAT. 

That old dismantled steamer lying in the 
water at the west, near the base of the hills, 
is the Merrimac, converted into a floating grog 
shop. It is resorted to by boatmen and small 
pleasure parties. During pleasant days in 
summer it is decorated with flags to render it 
more attractive. It is a beacon giving warn- 
ing of danger. It were well, if all would 
give it a wide bertfi. 

BOWER'S COVE 
Lies du-ectly opposite Sassafras Point. 

KETTLE'S POINT 

Is on the east, directly opposite Field's 

Point. The Bristol and Warren railroad 

skirts the edge of the river fi'om this point, 

to Barrington. ' The cars ahvays attract tlie 

2a 



2S 

attention of excursionists when they happen 
to pass simultaneously with the boat. 

FIELD'S POINT. 
The first point on the west below Sassafras 
Point. After passing Field's Point, you come 
to some high isolated rocks near the eastern 
shore. These take the names of 

FULLER'S ROCKS, CONEY ISLAND, SCOPULOUS 

ISLAND, BULKHEAD ROCK, AND POMHAM 

ROCK. 

The pyramidal beacon, with the black ball, 
is called 

POMHAM ROCK BEACON. 
Pomham, or Pumham, is the name of a 
valiant Narragansett chief By laying claim 
to lands which had been sold by superior 
chiefs to the EngHsh, and by taking sides 
against the whites in King Philip's war, he 
was the occasion of much trouble to the Pim- 
tans. Pie was killed in July, 167G, in a fight 
with the English. 



The small island on the west, with a low 
house upon it, which you pass before you 
reach Pomham Beacon, is 

STARVE-GOAT ISLAND, 
Generally abridged in conversation to Star- 
get Island, and frequently to Goat Island. 
Between the channel and this island are nu- 
merous artificial beds of oysters. Ths house 
on it is occupied by the watchman, whose 
constant vigilance is necessary to keep de- 
predators away from these tempting, ruffled 
bivalves. 

VUE DE L'EAU 
Is the name of the large Avhite building on 
the east. It derives its name from the splen- 
did water view which you have from that 
point. It is occupied as a boarding house 
during the warm season. 

PAWTUXET 
Is the village on the west, with the dark 

2b 



colored church. It is five miles below Pro\a- 
dence, and is situated on both sides of the 
Pawtuxet E-iver. Vessels of fifty tons go up 
to the town. It has extensive cotton and 
woolen manufactories and several grist mills. 

SABIN'S POINT, 
Is the point on the east. 

PAWTUXET BEACON, 
We leave on the west. The depth of water 
in the channel, abreast of the town, is thirty- 
six feet at low water. Observe now the de- 
pression of the land on both sides of the 
river. 

GASPEE POINT 
Is that low, sandy point which puts out on 
the west below Pawtuxet. It is indicated by 
a spar -buoy. It takes its name from the de- 
struction of the British schooner Gaspee, 
which occui-red here in 1772. This armed 
vessel had been stationed at Prqyidence, by 



25 

the British government, to assist the custom- 
house officers in the collection of the revenue 
and to punish what it considered as the con-^ 
traband traffic of the Americans. The captain 
provoked the resentment of the people by 
compelling all the Providence packets to sa- 
lute his flag^ by lowering theirs. If they 
refused, he fired at them and chased them 
into the wharf In the month of June, 1772, 
one of these packets, containing a number of 
passengers, came up the river and refused to 
Balute. The schooner fired at it. But as 
that did not induce the required etiquette, the 
schooner took after it. "When the master of 
the packet saw him coming, he determined^ 
if possible, to run him aground. He was 
favored by the water. It being nearly high- 
tide, the dangerous places were all covered, 
yet not so much as to render them harmless. 
Accordingly, the American captain manoeuvred 
in such a manner as to draw the schooner 
that was sailing in his wake, upon that con- 



26 

cealed sandy point. He was successful. The 
schooner there got agi'ound and was unable to 
get off. The packet proceeded triumphantly 
to Pro^•idence, where tidings of the artifice 
produced a strong sensation. Eveiybody was 
pleased. A plan was immediately projected 
for destroying the obnoxious vessel 

A band of resolute Yankees under the com- 
mand of an eminent merchant named Brown, 
and a ship master of the name of Whipple, 
set out at two o'clock, next morning, June 
10th, and approached so silently and sudden- 
ly that they succeeded in boarding and cap- 
turini? her without wounchnsf anv on board 
except the captain. He was landed, together 
with his private effects, and then the captors 
set fire to the Gaspee and consumed it vath 
all its stores. The British government offered 
a reward of five hundred pounds, together 
with a pardon, if claimed by an accomplice, 
for the discover}' and apprehension of any 
person concerned in the affair. It was all to 



27 

no purpose. Xo one could be found to give 
the requii-ed information. 

BULLOCK'S POrS'T 
Is on the east. It has a red spar buoy. At 
the head of the cove which sepai-ates Bullock's 
Point from the main land is a grave-yard, in 
which repose the remains of the first !Mayor 
of Xew York. The insciiption on the grave 
stone is as follows : 

" 1664. 

Here lyeth the body of ye worthy 
Thomas Willett, Esq., who died Augull 
4tli, in ye 64th year of his age, anno. 

Who was the firll: Mayor of New 
York and twice did fullain the place." 

GREEX'S ISLAND 

Is just below Gaspee Point on the same 
side of the river. Immediately behind it is 
a large cove known as 

OCCUPASPATUXET COVE, 
Or more generally as Green Island Cove. 



28 

It is noted for the size and excellent quality 
of its clams. Immense quantities have been 
obtained here. 

On the opposite side of the river may be 
seen the wharf and light of 

BARRINGTON. 

The land extending from Bullock's Point 
to Rumstick Point is embraced in the town 
of Barrington. This town contains a grist 
mill, an extensive brick factory and several 
schools. 

The Bristol and Warren railroad runs along 
the shore from India Point and then passes 
through this town. The village cannot be 
seen from the rjver. 

NAYATT POINT. 

Sharks are sometimes caught from the 

wharf. There is some good fishing in the 

neighborhood. There is a well-conducted 

boarding-house here to which families from 



29 

Providence and elsewhere fiee from the dust, 
noise, confinement and oppressive heat of the 
cities. Its hght-house is quite a picturesque 
object. 

This may be regarded as the mouth of the 
river, as it here suddenly enlarges and be- 
comes the bay. 

WARREN. 

Is the next town on the east side of the 
bay. It is [ten miles from Providence. In 
1T78, Eev. Charles Thompson the Baptist 
minister of tliis place, who had been appoint- 
ed a chaplain in the American army, was 
seized by the British, and taken away a pris- 
oner. The invaders consisted of some five 
hundred English and liessian troops under 
the command of Col. Campbell. They came 
up in boats. After landing about half a mile 
south of Peck's Pocks, they scattered the in- 
habitants, seized and disabled several cannon 
and then passed on to Kickimuit river, just 



30 

below the present stone bridge. The Ameri- 
cans were then building some seventy flat bot- 
tomed boats, with which they intended to en- 
gage in an expedition against Xewport, then 
held by the enemy. These, the invaders piled 
in a heap -, set them on fire, and burnt them, 
with a large quantity of pitch, tar, turpen- 
tine, ship timber and other American proper- 
ty. They then returned to Warren and com- 
pleted their nefarious business, by burning 
the Baptist Churchy the parsonage, Avith sev- 
eral other dwellings and blowing up the poW' 
der magazine. 

The dress of the British on that occasion is 
said to have been " Red Coats, cocked hats, 
and small clothes, Avith a great display of lace 
trimmings, shoe and knee buckles. The 
Hessians wore enormous fur caps and large, 
wide, loose boots into which they thrust all 
kinds of articles pilfered from the houses, 
which, hanging over the tops of their boots, 
gave them a singularly grotesque appearance." 



31 

On their retreat, one individual, carrying a 
large drum, fell in tlie rear. The women 
seeing that he was thus separated from the 
rest of the company, ran out, surrounded him, 
and made him a prisoner. Instead of being 
mortified at liis capture, he said he " was glad 
of it," because he was so fatigued with the 
marching and the work of the day. Three 
cheers for the courageous and patriotic wo- 
men of Wai'ren ! This prisoner was after- 
Avards exchanged for one of the citizens of 
the town. 

Ehode Island College was established here, 
and Dr. James Manning its first President 
was elected in September, 1765. In May, 
1770, it was removed to Providence. It had 
been previously agreed that the college should 
be located in the county which should contri- 
bute the most largely to its funds. Newport 
raised £4000 and Providence £4280. 

Wan-en is a pleasant and thriving town of 
about three thousand inhabitants. Its chief 



S2 

business interests are shipping, ship buliding, 
a large steam cotton manufactory, an exten- 
sive jewelry establishment, and other mechan- 
ical branches. It is also noted for its su- 
perior schools. 

The Seminary for young ladies under the 
care of Mr. A. M. Gammell, assisted by an 
able corps of teachers, is particularly cele- 
brated. Its pupils come from all parts of the 
country. 

CONNDHCUT POINT 

Is on the west, opposite Nayatt Point. It 
has a wooden beacon surmounted by a ball 
and vane. The channel here is forty-five 
feet deep. 

RUMSTICK POINT AND ROCKS 
Are on the east. This peninsula is sup- 
posed to take its name from its resemblance 
to a toddy stick. Boats are obliged to pass 
round this point in order to go up to Warren , 
situated on Barrington river, which here 



ss 

empties into the bay. Turn now and look 
across the river to the western side. Do you 
see those large white buildings standing near 
the shore ? That is 

ROCKY POINT. 
It is one of the most beautiful and roman- 
tic spots on the bay. It is row owned by 
Mr. Winslow, who seems to have spared no 
pains to make it as attractive as possible. Its 
numerous trees, its uneven ground, its wild 
and massive rocks piled up in most grotesque 
confusion, forming caves and subterranean 
passages of singular character, — its solitary 
walks, its bowling alleys, swings, fandangoes, 
flying horses and chariots, with its amphithea- 
tre, convenient, sandy shore for bathing, and 
its extensive open shaded saloons furnished 
with the various non-intoxicating refresh- 
ments, serve to render this a most desirable 
Summer resort. Steamers ply between here 
and Providence twice or more a day, during 



34 

the warm season, and are generally crowded 
with passengers. It is famous for its clam- 
bakes and fish chowders. A charming ^dew 
of the bay and the surrounding country is ob- 
tained from its beautiful and shady hill sides. 



WARWICK NECK. 

Extends from Rocky Point down to the 
light house. It was from this neck that Col. 
Barton took his departui'e when he went on 
his famous expedition to captui-e Gen. Lee. 

In the township of Warwick is a remarka- 
ble rock so equally poised upon two points, 
that a child can move it. As it rocks and 
strikes the stone floor on which it rests, it pro- 
duces a loud sound, which can be heard in 
clear weather several miles, from which cir- 
cumstance it has been called the Drum Rock. 
It is said to have been used by the Indians to 
give alarm in times of danger. Warwick 
was so named after the Earl of War'v\dck, 



35 
OHIO LEDGE; 

Consists of dangerous sunken rocks nearly 
in the middle of the bay, between Rocky 
Point and Bristol. It is designated by that 
large tri-colored can-buoy, which, as it is 
rolled about by the waves, presents alternate- 
ly to view, black, white and red, 

WARWICK LIGHT HOUSE 
Is at the termination of Warwick Neck. 
It is the northern and eastern point of Green^ 
wich Bay. 

BRISTOL. 

May now be seen on the east shore. This 
town is beautifully situated on a plain gently 
ascending from the water's edge to the higher 
grounds in its reai\ Its streets cross each 
other at right angles, are wide and ornament- 
ed on each side with the stately elm and lin- 
den, whose spreading branches^ in many in- 
stances, gracefully interlock and furnish by 
their thick foliage, a dehghtful shade through 



the warm season. Its location, midway be- 
tween the cities of Providence and Newport, 
avoiding the severe heat of the one, and the 
rough sea winds of the other, attracts many 
visitors in summer on account of its heaUhful 
and refreshing aii'. Its inhabitants number 
about five thousand, nearly one quarter of 
whom are employed in agricultural pursuits, 
for which its luxurious soil is admirably adapt- 
ed. It maintains considerable commerce coast- 
wise, and with the West Indies. It is a port 
of entry and seat of justice. It has five 
churches belonging to as many different de- 
nominations, two of which have been erected 
within a few years, and are probably unsur- 
passed in beauty and elegance by any in the 
State. It has a number of manufactories for 
cotton, sugar-refining, rifle-making, planing 
and cabinet work, propelled by steam power, 
also several banks. The public schools here 
have been brought to a high order by the 
liberal provision of the town, a judicious 



3t 

classification, and a thorougli supervision. 
The Normal School of the State is located in 
this pleasant village, and is quietly extending 
its influence under the able and efficient man- 
agement of its accomplished Principal. 

This like other towns situated on the Nar* 
ragansett Bay, suflered severely during the 
war of the Revolution. It was once bom- 
barded by a fleet of two English men-of-war 
under the command of James Wallace, and 
its inhabitants laid under contribution. At 
another time it was invaded by an armed 
force, some of its piincipal men taken prison- 
ers, one of its churches, and a number of its 
dwelling houses destroyed by fire. Most of 
the people sought refuge in flight. A vener- 
able clergyman, Eev. John Burt, in attempt- 
ing to do this at the time of the bombard- 
ment, fell and died in a fit. 

A peninsular strip of richly cultivated land 
lying west of the village, and jutting down 
into the bay, called Poppasquash, supposed 



to he a compound of the two Indian words^ 
Pappoose-Squaw, presents rare sites for sum- 
mer residences, and beautiful drives from the 
town. 

Two miles to the east on a bay called by 
the same name, rises Mount Hope, supposed 
to he a corruption of the Indian name Mon- 
taup, the ancient seat of the famous King 
Philip, for so many years the formidable ene- 
my of the English settlements in all parts of 
New England. From its summit rock he 
could take cognizance of the signal fires of 
his allies witliin a large circuit ; while at its 
base, he could hide himself within a munition 
of granite, and drink of the crystal waters 
that burst forth beneath his feet. Those 
strong fortifications of nature still remain. — 
That living spring yet runs cool and clear, 
while their primitive possessor, the bravest 
and the noblest of his race, fell in ambush on 
these same grounds, by the hand of a deserter 
from his own ranks. 



39 

In the war which this chief, in conjunction 
with others whom he induced to join him, 
waged against the EngUsh for their extermi- 
nation, a vast amount of injury was done. It 
has been estimated that at least six hundred 
of the inhabitants — ^the floAver and strength 
of the Enghsh were either slain or wounded ; 
twelve or thirteen towns in Massachusetts, 
Plymouth and Rhode Island colonies were en- 
tirely ruined, and others greatly injured ; six 
hundred buildings were consumed, and a large 
number of cattle and a great quantity of 
goods were destroyed. 

The death of Phihp in 1676 brought the 
domain over which he presided, into the pos- 
session of Plymouth colony by right of con- 
quest. In 16.80 the whole peninsula after- 
wards named Bristol, was purchased of said 
colony by four citizens of Boston, for the 
sum of eleven hundred pounds sterling. From 
that year its settlement began. In 1684 the 
first chui'ch was built on the common, near 

8a 



40 

the site of tlie present Court House, from 
timber cut clown on the spot. It served the 
Society as a place of worship just one centu- 
ry and was occupied by five successive pas- 
tors. 

Bristol County was originally occupied by 
the Wampanoags under their chief Massasoit. 
After the great plague which swept off so 
many of his tribe, just before the landing 
of the Puritans, he became subject to the 
Narragansetts. He was the father of King 
Philip. 

PRUDENCE ISLAND . 

Is on the w^est opposite Poppsquash. It is 
about six miles long by three miles wide. Its 
beautiful lawn-like slopes towards the w^ater, 
with an occasional house to break the monot- 
ony, render it particularly pleasing to the 
spectator. It is cultivated and well adapted 
to grazing. 

Between Prudence and the main land on 



41 

tlie west are three small islands with the sig- 
nificant names of 

PATIENCE, DESPAIR AND HOPE. 

Patience can be seen as you descend the 
bay. It lies between Prudence and Warwick 
Light. The others are invisible, unless you 
are sailing through the west passage. The 
boats generally go through the east one. 

GULL POINT, 

Puts out from Prudence Island and forms 

the northern arm of 

POTTER'S COVE. 

There is a wharf at the southern part of 

this cove. 

HOG ISLAND 

Is at the east opposite Gull Pomt in the 

mouth of Bristol harbor. This island was 

sold by Massasoit, sometimes called Ousame- 

quin, to Richard Smith of Portsmouth, R. I., 

Feb. 7, 1653. Its Indian name was Ches- 

wanocke. 



42 
Just beyond Hog Island to the east is 

BRISTOL FERRY, 

Whicli intervenes betAveen the north-west- 
ern end of the island of Rhode Island and 
the southern point of Bristol. 

By looking up this channel in a north-east- 
erly direction you can see 

FALL RIVER. 

This town was incorporated in 1803 by the 
name of Troy. In ISo-i the name was 
changed to that of the river on which it 
stands. It is pleasantly located at the junc- 
tion of Taunton and Fall Rivers. Fall River 
orignates in the Wattuppa Ponds, one of which 
is eleven miles in length and one in breadth. 
It is two miles east of the town and is sup- 
plied by perpetual springs. The river has 
a constant volume of water with a descent of 
a hundred and thirty-six feet. 

During the Revolution a party of about 
two hundred British soldiers landed on the 



43 . 

Boiitli part of where the present city stands, 
They were met by fifteen Americans com- 
manded by Joseph Durfee, who were sta- 
tioned behind a stone walL As the British 
advanced they fired upon them. Two soldiers 
fell dead. Upon this the others, acting upon 
the principle that discretion is the better part 
of valor, immediately retreated to their boats 
and fled, leaving their two comrades behind 
them. These the Americans buried upon the 
site of the present Pocasset Factory. When 
this building was erected, their remains were 
removed to the town grave yard, where they 
probably now repose. 

Fall River contains one woollen, one linen 
and a number of cotton mills, extensive 
Print w^orks, rolling mill, nail factory and 
various other mechanical establishments. 

It formerly contained an immense rocking 
stone, which was a ^huge inass of conglomer- 
ate so poised, that it could be easily rocked. 
It has now lost its balance. Not far from 



44 

this city is the famous Dightoii Rock, with 
its mysterious inscription which, for so many 
years, has puzzled the learned. Fall Eiver 
is in Massachusetts. 

THE ISLAND OF RHODE ISLAND 
Is on the East. It is from this Island that 
the State derives its name. It originally 
belonged to the Aquidneck Indians, and by 
them was called Aquidneck, which signifies, 
Isle of Peace. A short time before the set- 
tlement of the country by the English, it was 
conquered by the Narragansetts and held by 
them until they sold it to the English. 

In the struggle for its possession there 
were two battles. One was on the water in 
canoes. In this the INarragansetts were vic- 
torious. The Aquidnecks retreated to the 
Island and encamped about three miles and a 
quarter from the State House, in Newport, 
in what is now the town of Middletown, on 
a piece of swampy land, a little east of the 



45 

road leading to Bristol Ferry. Here they 
were surrounded by the Narragansetts, who 
attacked them on all sides with the fury of 
savages, and in a short time slew and wound- 
ed so many of them as to make it useless to 
continue the conflict. From this time the 
Aquidnecks were tributary to their conquerors. 

Its present name of Rhode Island was given 
to it after the celebrated Isle of Ehodes in the 
Mediterrean Sea. It is fifteen miles long and 
about tlii-ee and a half broad. It is connected 
vnth. the main land at the North-East by a 
long stone bridge. The soil is rich, and it ■ 
was once covered with a heavy forest well 
filled with various kinds of game, including 
deer and fowl. 

The Island was settled by William Cod- 
dington and a number of others about 1637. 
They fixed their residences at the northern 
end of the Island, where they laid out a town 
which was first called Pocasset. Subsequent- 
ly this name was relinquished for that of 
Portsmouth.. 



46 

A few montlis afterwards, another settle- 
ment was commenced in tlie southern part of 
the Island, to which was given the name of 
Newport. They were both united under a 
kind of patriarchal government of which Mr. 
William Coddington was appointed the Chief 
Magistrate. 

Coddington purchased the island of the 
Indians for twenty-three coats, thirteen hoes 
and two torkepes. 

Governor Hutchinson, in his History of 
Massachusetts says, that after the persecution 
of the celebrated Ann Hutchinson by the 
Puritans of Boston, " Mr. Hutchinson, her 
husband sold his estate and removed with his 
wife and family first to Aquidneck, (Rhode 
Island,) being one of the purchasers of that 
Island from the Indians, where by the influ- 
ence of his wife, the people laid aside Mr. 
Coddington and three other Magistrates, and 
chose him for their sole ruler." 

The author of a little quaint tract published 



47 

in 1676, entitled, " A Glass for the people of 
New England, by S. G.," supposed to be 
Samuel Gorton, says, when speaking of iSIrs. 
Hutchinson, "So she goes by water with 
many others who perceived they must go to 
pot next, and providentially fell in with PJiode 
Island, where they made a cave or caves and 
in them lived until the cold winter was past." 
She afterwards moved " to the Dutch country 
beyond New Haven," where she was murder- 
ed, with all her family except one daughter, 
by the Pequod Indians. This daughter was 
taken into captivity. 

During the American Eevolution this beau- 
tiful Island was in the possession of the British 
for tlii-ee years, from December 6th, 1776, to 
October 25th, 1779. During this time, they 
did it an immense amount of injury. They 
cut down all the trees, and destroyed all the 
fences for fuel. They plundered the inhabi- 
tants of stores, food and various other kinds 
of property. Not satisfied with destroying 



48 

fences and trees amongst which were valu« 
able orchards, and nurseries, they tore down 
nine hundred houses and converted them into 
fire-wood. 

All the meeting houses on the Island except 
that of the English Episcopal Church, they 
mutilated, by tearing down the pulpits, re- 
moving the pews, and converting what re- 
mained into hospitals for the sick and w^ounded 
soldiers. 

This Island was a scene of a gallant exploit 
performed by Lieutenant Colonel Barton. — 
Major General Prescott was the commander 
of the British army which occupied the Island. 
The Americans were anxious to get possession 
of his person ; and a plan for that purpose 
w^as arranged, and successfully executed by 
Col. Barton. The head-quarters of Prescott 
were about five miles from Newport. The 
plan was to enter the house by night, seize 
the General in bed, and cany him off before 
any alarm could be given. It was a difficult 



49 

and dangerous exploit, in consequence of the 
vessels of war and sentinels around the quar- 
ters. On the night of July 10th, 1777, Bar- 
ton, vnth. forty volunteers, including several 
officers, left Warwick Neck, in two boats. — ' 
They passed cautiously down the river, silently 
rowing with muffled oars and eluding with 
great vigilance the ships and guai'd-boats 
which were stationed around the Island. They 
succeeded in reaching the Island under the 
f.xyorin2: darkness, without discoverv. But 
now the most difficult part of the enterprize 
remained to be accomplished. Tradition re- 
ports that among the pai'ty who went up to 
the house was a hard-shell negro, named 
Prince, and that when they came sufficiently 
near to see the sentinel, this ebony volunteer 
dropped upon his hands and knees, and crept, 
apparently smelling his way like a dog, so as 
to avoid detection, close to the unsuspicious 
sentinel, when, seeing his opportunity, he 
returned to his biped condition, clasped the 



50 

sentinel in his brawny arms and told Hm lie 
was a dead man if he made the least noise. — 
Having frightened him into silence, he then 
transferred him for safe keeping into the 
hands of the others. Passing on without 
difficulty, the party soon found themselves at 
the door of Prescott's chamber which was 
fast closed. The great question, how it could 
be opened with sufficient suddenness to pre- 
vent his escape from the window, was soon 
settled by Prince's head ; for bringing his thick 
skull into sudden and powerful contact with 
it, he broke one of the panels and then easily 
opened the door. Prescott Avas seized in bed. 
One of his aids-de-camp leaped, without cere- 
mony, from the window, and being somewhat 
in haste on the interesting occasion, he did 
not even stop for his clothes. This agility, 
however, was useless, for he was caught on 
the outside of the house by Barton's men, and 
sans ceremony and sctns clothes was taken with 
the general to the boat and rowed over to the 



51 

American side. So suddenly and skillfully 
was every thing managed, that they had nearly 
left the Island before any alarm was given. 
As the boats passed by the British vessels of 
war, they could distinctly hear the sentinels 
on their decks call out "all's well." All 
was well for the adventurers. 

This was the second time that Prescott had 
been taken within two years. The event 
produced great joy and exultation among the 
Yankees, and no little regret and mortification 
among the English. It was regarded as an 
appropriate retaliation for the capture of Gen- 
eral Lee, who had been taken by the British 
some time before. 

Tradition reports that while Prescott was a 
prisoner, he stopped, "vvith those who had 
charge of him, at a tavern. He there called 
for a dinner. The host brought in some 
succotash, consisting of boiled corn and beans 
and set it before him. This so offended the 
General, that he took the dish and threw the 



52 

contents into the face and bosom of the host. 
The man quietly wiped himself, and went out 
and got a cowliide. He then returned and 
gave the officer a sound flogging for the in- 
sult. 

The house where the General was captured 
is still standing. It is an old fashioned edi- 
fice wdth a large chimney in the centre of the 
roof It may be seen from the Avater. Two 
conspicuous, ragged, button wood trees stand 
apparently at its southern end. 

In the month of August, 1778. A battle 
was fought t)n the Island between the English 
and the Americans, in which the Americans 
had oO killed, 132 wounded and 44 missing. 
The British, by their own account had 38 
killed, 280 wounded and 12 missing. Gen- 
erals Green and Sullivan were the Americair 
commanders. It had been expected that 
the French fleet under Count D'Estaing, 
which had recently arrived from France, 
would render essential service to the Ameri* 



cans. But instead of this the County although 
he was informed of the state of affairs and 
was strongly entreated by the Americans to 
remain and cooperate Avith them, refused and 
fled to Boston. The reason assigned is, that 
his officers, being displeased that he, a lands- 
man, had been placed over them, were un- 
wilhng that he should have the opportunity of 
doing anything to his own honor, and as he 
had met with some disasters in a recent heavy 
storm and a superior British fleet was expect- 
ed, they insisted that he should comply with 
his instructions which required him, in case 
these contingencies occurred, to go to Boston. 
The Americans were greatly disappointed and 
chagiined by his course. There was every 
reason to believe that if he had staid, the 
whole British army would have been captured 
and the Island regained. As it was, the 
Americans retreated after the battle to the 
main land. 



54 

A short distance south of Bristol Ferry, on 
this Island, are the 

RHODE ISLAND COAL MINES. 
They are six hundred feet deep and have 
several galleries proceeding from the main 
shaft to a distance of from three hundred 
to eleven hundred feet. The coal is an- 
thracite, makes an exceedingly hot iire, but 
requires a strong draught. A few miles 
south of these mines on Khode Island is 

PORTSMOUTH GROVE. 
The large white building on the shore is a 
public house. The small summer house on 
the hill is a kind of observatory, from which 
may be had an extensive and beautiful pros- 
pect. Here are groves of yoimg trees a short 
distance back of the house, fitted up with fan- 
dangoes, flying horses, swings, bowling alleys, 
etc., for the amusement of visitors. It is a 
place of dehghtful summer resort for excur- 



55 

sion parties who can liere#enjoy good sea air, 
retirement from noise, a clam-bake, chowder 
and other luxuries. The sail between here 
and Providence is exceedingly delightful in a 
warm day. About a mile from the house is 
On6 of the largest springs in New England. 
That row of small buildings on the shore ap- 
pearing Hke a file of soldiers is a range of ba- 
thing houses. They are always occuj)ied in 
a warm day when parties are at the Grove. 

SANDY POINT LIGHT 
Is the light-house on Prudence Island, 
nearly opposite Portsmouth Grove. This 
Pharos, with its accompanying house and 
barns, the gently swelhng hill behind it, the 
blue sky abov6 and the green water in front, 
constitute a very agreeable picture. 

BULLOCK'S WHARF 
Is a short distance from the Sandy Point 
light on Prudence Island. A large yellow 
house is at the top of the lawn. 



56 

DYEft'S ISLAND 
Is a small low island, on the east. It has 
neither house nor tree. 

HALFWAY ROCKS 
Are a Idw dark ledge about a mile below 
the southern extremity of Prudence. They 
form a point df great danger to unskillful 
navigators, es]^jecially in the night, as vessels 
go on either side of them, and with a little 
erroneous rcckdning could come directly upon 
them; 

canonIcut island. 
i)u*dctly west of the Half Way Eocks is 
the northern portion of Canonicut Island, 
also called Jamestown. It extends further 
sduth than Newpdrt. 

GOULD ISLAND 
Rises sdnlewhat boldly out df the water 
near the western shore. It may be known 
by its two red houses. 



5t 

BISHOP'S ROCK 
Is that bold rock at the east neai- the shore, 
Tradition relates that formerly sailors were ac- 
customed to salute it when they passed it, by 
uncovering their heads. 

COASTER'S HAI]LBOR ISLAND. 
This is the island to the east with tlic largp 
Citone poor-house upon it. 

GULL ROCKS 
Are those rocks a short distance to the 
south-west of the Coaster's Harbor Island, 
which are white-washed. The object of 
white-washing them is to mak.e them jnorjB 
distinctly visible at night, that tliey may be 
lavoided, 

ROSE ISLAND 
Lies to the west of Gull Rocks. It coji- 
tains some old fortifications. 

THE DUMPLINGS 

May be seen to the south-Avest. They may 

4* 



58 

be known by their irregular jagged outline.—. 
The farthest one is shaped hke a dome. They 
appear to join Canonicut Island. The water 
in the channel here is a hundred and seventy- 
four feet deep. 

GOAT ISLAND 

Is at the mouth of Newport harbor. It 
may be recognized by its fortifications^ its 
light house and its long wall surmounted with 
an iron fence. 

If you arc not going to stop at Newport, 
you will then pass by the Dumplings, Kettle 
Bottom Rock, and Beaver Tail Light on the 
southern extremity of Canonicut Island, leav- 
ing them on the west, and Castle Hill, But- 
ter-Ball Rock and Brenton's Reef on the 
east and enter the ocean. 

Beaver Tail Point takes its name from its 
resemblance to the terminal appendage of that 
animal. 



59 

LIME ROCKS, 

As we round into the delightful harbor of 
Newport, we see on our right two small 
white Islands. They are of lime stone and 
hence their name. 

You have now arrived at 

NEWPORT, 

Famed the world over for its beautiful po- 
sition, its magnificent harbor, its historic as- 
sociations and its various natural and artific- 
ial objects of interest. It is one of the most 
elegant and fashionable watcrmg places in the 
country. 

It contains a State House, City Hall, Mar- 
ket House, twelve Churches, seven Banks, 
four Cotton Factories, one Woollen Mill, 
Lead Factory, seven Grist Mills, one Tan- 
nery, three Printing Ofiices and three 
Newspapers, a number of public and private 
Schools. 

Its population is about 10.000. 

4b 



60 

At Easton^s Beach, about a mile from tlio 
city on the east, the sea rolls in, in all its 
grandeur, forming a sandy shore as hard 
almost as if it were j\Iacadamized. A long 
row of bathing houses, arranged just above 
hio'h water mark, furnish accommodations for 
dressino" to the thousands of individuals who, 
during the warm season, resort here for a ma- 
rine bath. On certain days it is used for fash^ 
ionable drives, ^A'hen, both the permanent and 
transient residents turn out in great numbers, 
passing and repassing each other on horseback, 
or in vehicles of the most unique and beauti- 
ful character. On these occasions, as well as 
at bathing hours, the beach presents an ex- 
tremely lively appearance full of healthful 
exliiliration. The loud halloo, the cheerful 
laugh, the sliiill screom and other sounds of 
merriment, mingle with the roar of the 
breaking billows, like notes from the fancy 
stops of an organ blending with its deep di- 
apason, or still deeper bass. 



61 

A short distance to the south-west of the 
beach, the rocks rise to a great height and 
form an impassible barrier to the restless 
waves, which are ever dashing against them* 
A flight of forty steps, in one place, leads 
down to the water. Here spectators may 
stand and view the raging waves struggling 
in " their agony ' to break through the migh- 
ty rampart, and then falling back in despair. 

A mile or so beyond Easton's beach to the 
east is the Second beach. A hug3 chasm in 
the rock here is called Purgatory. This 
chasm is supposed by Dr. Jackson, who has 
made a geological survey of the State, to 
have been once filled with green stone Avhich 
has been washed out by the long continued 
action of the waters, except a small quantity 
at the end of the rent. The rocks along here 
are conglomerate — or pudding stone. But 
they are peculiar for having all the small 
stones laid in " the paste" lengthwise. They 
are placed as regularly as if done by human 



hands. This feature gives to the sides of the 
ravine or Purgatory the appearance of a pet- 
rified wood-pile. jSTear here are some huge 
boulders which have been regarded of suffici- 
ent importance to be pictured by various ar- 
tists. 

On another part of the coast is seen the fa,- 
mous spouting rock, which when the sea runs 
strongly before a south-east storm, throws up 
the water to a height of forty feet accompan- 
ied with a loud roaring noise. Near here is 
the boat landing, a curious little cove, which 
Nature has made between the rocks, as if for 
this purpose. So small is it that only one 
boat can enter or leave it at a time. The fish- 
ermen put out from here when plying their 
craft. 

Gravelly Point formerly knOAvn as Buirs 
Point is invested with tragic interest as the 
place where twenty-six pirates were all hanged 
at once on the nineteenth of July 1723. This 



is probably, tbc greatest wholesale execution 
ever witnessed uj)on our shores. 

The Glen and Lily Pond, are delightful 
romantic spots some distance from the city. 

The old Liberty Tree is a button-wood 
with which time, the elements and worms, 
have taken such liberties that it now presents 
the appearauce of decrepit old age. It is in 
the city and has upon its trunk, nearly cov- 
ered with its bark, a metal plate gi"S'ing the 
date of its planting. 

Among the artificial objects "which attract 
the attention of strangers is Fort Adams, 
about a mile from the city. This is a work of 
extraordinary magnitude and vast expense, 
which requires for its defence three hundred 
and sixty pieces of ordnance, embracing cauT 
non, howitzers and mortars, and a large num- 
ber of small arms. To use all these imple- 
ments of war will give employment to a gar^ 
risen of twenty-four hundi-ed men. 

The Redwood Library containing some 



64 

thousands of volumes, was erected and en- 
dowed by Mr. Abraham Eedwood in 1T47, 
after whom it has been named. It suffered 
greatly during the American Ke volution, as 
most of the books were destroyed or carried 
off by the British. As however the building 
was spared and a few of the books were left, 
it was afterwards repaired and its naked 
shelves replenished Avith many useful and 
valuable works by the literary gentlemen of 
the town. The edifice, though not very 
large " is an elegant building much admired 
by architects." 

The Old Stone Mill is an object of curios- 
ity, and many models of it are sold and car- 
ried away from Newport every season. It is 
circular in form, and rests on arches support- 
ed by eight round columns. It is about thir- 
ty feet high and fifteen feet in diameter. It 
is destitute of roof and fixtures of any 
kind. About six feet from the top are three 
small apertures or windows. On the inside, 



65 

above the arches^ are the rcliiains of a fire 
place ; and also several mortices apparently 
for the reception of timbers which once, prob' 
ably, sustained a floor. 

The interest of this edifice arises mainly 
from the uncertainty of its origin. No one 
can tell by whom or for what purpose it Avas 
erected. Difierent opinions prevail. Some 
say it was built by the first English settlers, 
for a windmill, others that it was intended 
for defence, whilst a third class believe that it 
is the work of the old Northmen who are 
said to have visited this part of America long 
before the discoveries of Columbus. 

The Jews Synagogue was formerly used by 
the Hebrews as a place of worship. It is 
now closed, but is kej)t in godd repair, as is 
also the burial ground and the street on which 
it stands, by the interest of a sum of money 
which was bequeathed for that purpose to the 
town by a wealthy Jew named Touro, Avho 
formerly resided here. 



66 

Two other objects which must not be for- 
gotten are the Perry Monument, drected to 
the honor of Commodore Perry who was born 
here, and the identical printing press which 
Benjamin Frankhn used when working at his 
trade. It is now in the office of the New- 
port Mercury, and is properly regarded as an 
object of great curiosity. 

We must not fail to state that Newport is 
well supplied mth Hotels, wdiose 'courteous 
proprietors spare neither pains nor expense in 
providing, not only the comforts, but also the 
luxuries of the season for the enjoyment of 
their guests. Amongst these arc the Ocean 
House, the Atlantic House, Bellevue House, 
the Aquidneck and the Fillmore. 

There are also various private boarding 
houses, where, at less expense, and in more 
retirement one may pass away the Summer. 



!i 



The subscriber wishing to call notice to the valua- 
ble preparation called 

SWOW & MASON'S 

CROUP m COUGH SYRUP, 

has taken this mode. T know there are many humbugs in 
the shiipe of patent medicines, pretending to cure all diseaa- 
efi ; 1 do not consider this :i8 one of them. Tliis medicine 
is for the Okocp and for Codghs. In regard to the Croup, 
it i.s a disea.-^e that needs a remedy at hand ; it will not wait 
for the physician to come •, but it must have immediate re- 
lief. 

This disease is Ciiused by exposure to a damp atmosphere, 
and to whatever checlvs perspii-ation, and is most prevalent 
in the Winter and iSpring. Chi'dren are generally attacked 
with it, in the evening, or during the niglit. The "symptoms 
area coldness over ihe whole surface of the body'; a great 
difficulty in Dreathintr, and a long shrill sound is produced. 
Tlic voice in couirhing, become hoarse and croaking ; the 
head is thrown back in great agony, as if attem^Jling to 
escape sutlbcation. 

The above valuable Syrup will always be found effec- 
tual ;— it has been trade for a number of years. 

It is sold at twenty-live cents a bottle, so low that no one 
need be without it. 

I have shown many physicians the method of making 
this Syrup, and the following ceitifiLcate gives some idea of 
their opinion of it :— 

•' Mr. Mason :— Rf r : — Having had occasion to witness the 
effect of Snow & Mason's Croup and Couah gyrup in very 
many instances, and being acquainted with its composition, 
I cheerfully recommend it to the public as a safe and vi^l- 
uable remedy, and one that everv family sliould be in pos- 
session of. J.'M. W'IGGIX, M. L>." 

This Syrup is jirepared only by the subscriber, 

C. A. P. MASQ]V, Apothecary, 

(Successor to Snow & Mason,) 
Wo. 167 Brqrd Street, Providence. 

Also recommended and for sale by E. T. Mason & Co., J. 
Balch & Son, J. G. Hassard, Wm. B. Blanding, Chambers- 
& Calder, Benjamin D. Bailej% Albert C. Dana, L. D. An- 
thony .t Co., Thomas VV. Eddy, H. H. Burrington, O. Sum- 
ner, M. D., Amos Palmer, Andrew J. Smith, Albert h 
Calder, Doctor Holmes, Pardon Sheldon, C. B. Burringtou' 

I^" P. S. Be sure and ask for Snow and Mason's proup 
and Cough Syrup, and see that you get ■whs.t ypu ask' for. 



FOR 

8!g^ Warranted to Cure Baldness, Scurf, Dandrutf, Itch- 
ing and all dii^eases of the Bkia. This Balm gives ihe 
PC-alp a new aud healthy action ; restores the coloring 
matter to the roots ot the Hair, which passes through the 
Hair aud gives it a natural color without the use of Hair 
Dye. 

PIqndreds of preparations have been introduced pretend- 
ing to preserve *he Hair and keep it from falling oft", com- 
posed of Oils, Alcohol, and other deleterious materials, 
and all to no use. Hair dyes have been introduced ttiat do 
not give the Hair a natural color, besides being trouble- 
sorne to use. This Balm is not a Dye. Knowing that a 
preparation was needed to do what was required for the 
Hair, the proprietor was induced to experiment until he 
could obtain an article that would be the exact remedy. It 
is soothing »nd emoU'ent, allays all irritation of the scalp, 
thereby stopping that troublesome itching. It Cures Dan- 
druff and Scurf, and when the Hair has turned gray it will 
bring it back to its original color, be it Black, Brown or 
Auburn, It makes the Hair soft and glo8^y, — prevents it 
from falling oft' as will be seen vipon using this Balm for 
onlj' ^ few days — life will be given to the roots of the Hair, 
and growth will soon appear. Growth does not take place 
at the end of the Hair, as will be seen in ])ersons who have 
their hair dyed. If you examine grey hair that has been 
colored for a week, you will ftnd towards the roots, that the 
hair has come out gray, hence it is necessary to have the 
fluid at the roots of the hair healthy, that the whole hair 
may be a natural color. Each hair has a root in the skin, 
and is of itself a hollow, s^ray tube, through which thereis 
a constant circulation of the pigment from the root. When 
this pigment or coloring matter dies out, it leaves the hair 
hollow and it becomes gray. To invent a balm that would 
produce this pigment has become the study of the propri- 
etor. The discovery of the Alpine Hair Balm will do it. 
It will bring the hair to its natural color by making anew 
the coloring matter in the roots of the hair. 

It is a mistaken notion that oil or grease will restore the 
hair, as nothing can be more injurious. The Alpine Hair 
Balm, will restore the skin and save the hair of those who 
have been sick with fever or any disease. 

Prepared by C. A. P. MASON, Apothecary, No. 167 
Broad street, Providence, R. 1. 

Also recommended and for sale by 

E. P. Mason & Co, H. II. Burrington, 

J. Balch &. Son, O. Sumner, M. D., 

J. Gr. Hazzard, Amos Palmer. 

Wm. B. Blanding, Andrew J. Smith, 

Chambers & Calder, Albert L. Calder, 

Benjamin B. Bailey, Doctor Holmes, 

Albert C. Dana, Pardon Sheldon, 

L. D. Anthony & Co., C. B.^Burrii:gton. 
Thomas W. Eddy, 



Dentist of the Baltimore College of Dental Sur- 
gery, Office No. 62 AVestminster street, performs all 
operations upon the Teeth and JMouth, for Preserva- 
tion and Health. Will construct full Dentures, or 
partial Sets, by any of the various processes desired. 
Teeth mounted on the " Cheoplastic" Process, a 
New and Beautiful method recently Patented by Dr. 
Blandy of Baltimore. By this process the Teeth are 
Cast in with the Plate. 

A PRACTICAL BOOK FOR EVERY FAmLY. 
«* FACTS FOR THE PEOPLE," 

Relating to the Teeth ; showing their influence upon 
the Health, Speech and Looks ; with directions for 
tlieir Care and Preservation. 

Testimonials recommending the Book: 

I have the happiness to say, in my opinion it truly con- 
i&ins, facts well worthy of a general dissemination. 

LEWIS MILLED, M. D., Providence, R. I. 

I can with pleasure recommend it as worthy of a general 
perusal and think it well adapted to the Avanls of the peo- 
ple. JOSEPK W. FEARING, M. D., 

Providence, R. I. 

It contains many useful practical "facts" upon the Teeth 
and their abuse; and wimple concise rules for the preserva- 
tion and tre.atment of these organs 1 c:innot but hope that 
it will meet with an extensive circulation, and add to your 
already well deserved reputation as a practitioner of the 
Dental art. A. II. OKIE, M. D., 

Providence, R. I. 

It contains much valuable information which deserves to 
be widely circulated. The teeth are every way so import- 
ant that it is hardly possible to place too'hish an estimate 
upon sound practical directions for their nreservation. 

GEORGE I. CHACE, 
Prof, of Chemistry and Physiology in Brown University. 

If the facts which you have so distinctly set forth are re- 
garded, especially by those having care of the young, the 
happiest results must inevitably follow. I thank you for 
the service you have rendered the public. 

WARREN RANDOLPH, Providence, R. I. 



STEAMER CANONICUS! 

EXCURSIONS TO ROCKY POINT. 

_ sjr™"n, On "Wednesday next, July 14th, 1858. the 
Js^'-^^mm superiorfast Si.iling steamer CAXONICUS, 
Captiiin Samuel Allen, will connnence her reyular Excur- 
eion Trips to Kocky Point ami I'ortsmouth Grove, ]eavin,t? 
Providence dnily, (Sunrlays excepted,) from Butler's wharif, 
(west side.) at 9 a. ni.. or on the arrival of the Hartford and 
Worcester n^orninp trains, and at 2 o'clock p. m., touching 
at Fall River Iron Works Company's Wharf, east side 

Keturniiitr, leave Portsmouth Grove at 11 a.m. and 4,'^ p. 
m. ; Winslow's wharf, Rocky Point, at 11^2 o'clock a. m. 
and 5 o'clock p. m. 

Fare for the E^xciirinioii, 25 Cents. 

Arrans^ements can be made to stop at any accessible point 
on the Bay, on reasonable terms, by a])p]vine: to 

DAVID 8"^lStiON, Agent. 

Providence, July 1st, 1858. 



i::3::G"cr£iSiorj-s to 

Winslow's Rocky Poiiit & Nayatt 

P „ j^^„^ The commodious steamer CUFTOX, Cap" 
^^^i^g^t^ tain Carr, will commence herretiular Excur- 
sion Trips for the season, on Monday, July 5th, 1858, to Nay- 
att and Rocky Point. 

Leave Almy's Wh£.rf, (west side,) at 9 o'clock a. m. and 
2 o'clock p. ra. 

Returning, leave Winslow's wharf, Rocky Point, at 10 
o'clock a. m. and o'clock p. m. 

Fare for the Excursion, 25 Cents. 
Arrangements can be made to take j^arties to any acces- 
sible place on the Bay, by applvine to 

E. 0. POTTER, Agent, No. 84 Dyer Street. 

DAILYl]XCURsToYs~T(r¥EWPO^^ 

AXD BACK FOR. 50 CEMS. 

COMMEXCING (»N TIIURBDAY, JULY 1st, 1858. 
^ ^-j^^j. The steamer PERRY, Capta,in N. B. Allen. 



will leave Providence for Newx^ort, daily, 

(Sundays excepted,) at 9)| o'clock a. m , or on arrival of 
trains from Boston, &c. 

Passengers may, (by cnllingr for an Excursion Ticket,) 
procure one for 50 cents that will entitle them to a return 
passaire (the same day only,) at 2 p. m. 

By this arrangement they will arrive at Newport at about 
11,'i a. m., tlms giving ample lime to visit Newport Beach, 
an(L^ther celelii-ated places. 

iOliy(Jn S:ilnr(laiiv (at 0^4 p.m..) "Excursion Tick- 
et-sCAvJll^je sold^at Ajl en^ie the purchaser to a return 
passage the followffig won(i^M|hy the 5 a. m. trip only. 

In no case will those.lickets be received, except as above 
mentioned. 



PROVIDENCE AND WORCESTER 

RAILROAD. 

SUMMER ARRANGEMENT. 



To take effect on Monday, May 10th, 1858. 

Passenger trains will leave Providence for Worcesier and 
Way Stations, at 7 15 and 11 45 a. in., and 4 20 p. m. 

Worcester for Providence and Way Stations, at 7 and 
11 oO a. m., and 4 p. m. 

Trains connect at Worcester Junction with trains to and 
from the Western, Worcester and Kashua, Boston and 
Worcester, and Norwicli and Worcester Kailroads. 

Through Tickets to all important points at the West, can 
ho obtained at the otiice of the Company in Providence, at 
as low rates as by any other route. 

Trains to and from Valley Falls and Providence, will leave 
as follows : 

Viilley Falls for Providence, at 6 10, 7, 8. 8 4 8, 10 and 
11 a. m., and 1, 123, 2. 3, 4, 5 50, 6 and 7 30 p. m. 

Providence for Valley Falls, at 6 35, 7 15, 7 30, 9 30, 
10 30 and 11 45 a. m., and 12 m., and 1 30, 2 30, 3 30, 
4 20, 5 30, 6 30 and 8 p. ni. 

K^Those trains in bold figures are the Worcester trains. 
S. H. TABOR, Superintendent. 

Providence, May 7th, 1858 



BOSTON & PROVIDENCE RAILROAD. I 

SUMMER ARRANGEMENT 1 



To Commence Monday, May 10th, 1858. 

On and after Monday, May 10th, 1S5S, until further notice, 
passenger trains will "be run as follows : 
Leave Providence at 7 35 and 11 15 a. m., and 410 p. m. 
Due at Providence at 9 25 a. m., and 1 05 and 6 p. m. 
Leave Boston at 7 25 and 11 10 a. m., and 4 p. m. 
Due at Boston at 9 30 a. m., and 1 10 and 6 10 p. in. 
S^teamboat train will leave Boston at 5 30 p. m. 
Due at Providence at 7 p. m. 

Hartford, Providence & Fishkill 

RAILROAD. 



Leave Providence at S a. m., and 2 45 p. m., for Hartford 
connecting with Express train for New York and Spring 
field. 

Leave Hartford at 7 a. m.. and 1 05 p^ m., for Providence, 
The 7 a. m. train connecting with the Boston, Taunton and 
New Bedford trains. 



STONINGTON AND PROVIDENCE 

RAILROAD. 



On cand after Monday, April J2th^ 1858, trains will run as 
folio WW : 

Accommodation passeneer trains will run as follows : 

Leave Providence at 7 30 a. m., 1 30 and 4 p. m. 

Leave Stonington at 7 00 a. m., and 3 15 p. m. 

The 1 30 p. m. train from Providence is a freight train 
with passenger car attached. 

New York steamboat train leaves Providence at 7 p. m., 
or on the arrival of the train from Boston. 

Leaves Stonington at 12 m., or on the arrival of the 
steamboat train from New York. 

The steamer Mystic will leave Stonington for New Lon- 
don on the arrival of the 7 30 a. m., train from Providence. 
Fare $2. 

A. S. MAT HEWS, Sup't. 

PROVIDENCE, WARREN & BRISTOL 

RAILROAD. 

PASSENGER NOTICE. 



ISUMMER Aim A ISGE ME S T, 

On and after Monday May lOth, 1858, the traits will run 
as folloAvs : 

Leave Providence at 8 a. m.. and 1 45 and 6. p. m. 

Leave Bristol at 6 30 and 9 30 a. m., and 3 p. m. 

Leave Warren for Providence at 6 40 and 9 40 a. m., and 
3 10 p. m 

Leave Wsrren for Bristol at 8 35 a.m., and 2 20 and 6 
35 p. ra. 

The 6 30 a m., and 3 p. m., trains from Bristol connect 
With the morning and evening trains to Boston 

The 6 p. m. train from Providence connects with the eve- 
ning train from Boston. L. M E. STONE, 

Engiheer and Superintendent. 

A. CRAWFORD GREENE & BROTHER, 

wmML mm m% wmmi%m, 

No. 24 Westminster St., 



A. Crawford Greene. J. Flavel Grebnr. 












'■'■' DOBBS BROS. '^^ c'^'^' 7 SifP "1- '^^^ .^' 

tIBRARV BINOING '•^ ^ ^ .^ ^^"^. - ^ "V 

^ J ST. AUGUSTINE „ '^. ' ^ 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 




